Sinonasal characteristics and quality of life by SNOT-22 in adult patients with cystic fibrosis

The prevalence of chronic sinus disease in cystic fibrosis (CF) has gradually increased. Sinonasal involvement may have influence on pulmonary exacerbations and can have a negative impact on the quality of life. To evaluate nasal characteristics and quality of life in adult patients with CF; to establish an association and determine the predictors in SNOT-22 questionnaire. Cross- sectional study with prospective data collection was performed to evaluate adult CF patients. Patients underwent clinical evaluation, lung function tests, nasal endoscopy, and paranasal sinuses CT scan. All the patients answered the SNOT-22 questionnaire. Results: A total of 91 patients were allocated, of which, 45.1% were male. Patients were divided into three groups by SNOT-22. A high average age, late age of diagnosis, rhinitis symptoms, and clinical criteria for rhinosinusitis were observed more frequently in patients with high SNOT-22 scores (p < 0.05). Overall, 84.6% patients had abnormal CT findings, with aplasia/hypoplasia of the sphenoid sinus being the most common finding. In multiple regression model, age, female gender, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the sputum were associated with high SNOT-22 scores in the nasal domain. Hyposmia and lack of medial bulging of lateral nasal wall were variables associated with high SNOT-22 scores in the quality of life domain. In total score, there was a positive association with age and the presence of P. aeruginosa in sputum. Despite high prevalence of abnormal tomographic findings, patients reported mild intensity of sinonasal symptoms. Advanced age and the presence of P. aeruginosa were associated with higher SNOT-22 scores.